Outdoor Exercise, well-being and connectedness to nature

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Outdoor Exercise, well-being and connectedness to nature

Veloso, S.; Loureiro, A.

Published in:PSICO

Date:2014-07-01

Abstract:

Positive outcomes from contact with nature on well-being have been presented by restorative environments research. Additionally, studies in the area of exercise recognize the physical and psychological benefits, and more recently, those related to outdoor practice, particularly in natural environments. Present study combines these two research areas, analysing the relationship between outdoor physical exercise and well-being, verifying the role of connectedness to nature in this respect. Participants are 282 practitioners of outdoor and indoor physical exercise who, answering a questionnaire, self-reported their exercise level, exercise subjective experience, affect and connectedness to nature. Differences between the two types of indoor and outdoor physical activity are reported, highlighting the benefits of outdoor exercise practicing. Participants who combine outdoor with indoor physical activity report more positive emotions and well-being associated with exercise, and their connectedness to nature is a significant predictor of well-being. Finally, we discuss implications for promotion of healthy lifestyles.